Carved by Man, Sculpted by Time: The Sand Caves of Kanab

The Sand Caves in Kanab, Utah, are a series of man-made caves carved into the soft sandstone cliffs of the area. These caves are a popular and easily accessible attraction for visitors exploring the region.

Know Before You Go:

Getting to the caves does require climbing/scaling a semi-steep rock but is pretty simple with careful foot placement however I DEFINITELY recommend hiking boots. The sand caves are visible from the roadway which helps with finding them and you can also download this trail from the AllTails app. Just know that about halfway you will come to the area of slanted rocks you have to scale and then will re-find the trail once you do so. Incredible views though not recommended for individuals with fear of heights.

Key Features of The Sand Caves:

Location: The Sand Caves are located just north of Kanab, Utah, along U.S. Highway 89. They are a short distance from the road, making them an easy stop for travelers.
History: Unlike many natural formations in the area, the Sand Caves were not formed naturally. They were created in the 1970s when sand was mined from the cliffs for glass production. Over time, the caves have become a unique and photogenic spot, with their smooth, undulating walls and openings that allow sunlight to filter through in interesting patterns.
Access: The caves are accessible by a short hike. Visitors must scramble up a steep, sandy slope to reach the cave entrances. The hike is relatively short but can be challenging due to the loose sand and incline.
Scenery: Inside the caves, the sandstone walls have a soft, golden hue, and the light creates beautiful contrasts, especially during the late afternoon. The interiors are spacious, with large openings that provide views of the surrounding landscape.
Popularity: The Sand Caves have become increasingly popular due to social media, where many visitors share photos of the striking interiors. It’s a favorite spot for photography, with the natural light and sandstone textures offering plenty of opportunities for creative shots.

Tips for Visiting The Sand Caves:

Footwear: Wear sturdy shoes with good traction, as the approach to the caves involves climbing a steep, sandy slope.
Safety: The caves are generally safe to explore, but be cautious on the loose sand and steep areas. The caves are also shallow, so there’s no need for special gear or lighting.
Best Time to Visit: The caves can be visited year-round, but early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting and cooler temperatures. Midday can be hot, and the sand can become very warm.

The Sand Caves in Kanab offer a quick and interesting stop for those traveling through southern Utah. They provide a unique blend of natural beauty and human history, all set against the stunning backdrop of the region’s iconic red rock landscapes.

Photography of The Sand Caves

About The Author

Isabel is a single mother and avid traveler based out of Cleveland, Ohio. Just over one year ago, she established this travel blog as a passion project. Letting her ‘creative juices’ flow, she was able to combine to of her hobbies: writing and photography.

Isabel’s goal for this pursuit is to highlight a growing collection of destinations that cater to a wide variety of lifestyle and budgets. Isabel has undertaken a variety of projects including: general travel guides, guides to museums and other attractions, restaurant reviews, reviews on unique lodging and even commissioned work allowing her to work with in conjunction with tourism boards to promote a certain destination.

In addition to dedicating near-full-time hours to her job as a travel blogger and micro-influencer, Isabel is a full-time emergency room paramedic and part-time firefighter. Above all, Isabel is a devoted mother to her 8-year-old daughter, Lily.